Emily Bond’s Sort of Seeing Someone is a delightful foray into the whimsical world of modern-day magic, romance, and self-discovery. The novel cleverly intertwines the mystical with the mundane, creating a narrative that is both enchanting and relatable. At its core, the book explores the age-old question of whether opposites truly attract, all while wrapped in a charming, contemporary setting.

The protagonist, Moonie Miller, is a character who immediately captures the reader's imagination. On her twenty-sixth birthday, she discovers an extraordinary ability to foresee a person's future through the simple act of touching their palms. This newfound power is not just a plot device but a metaphor for the deeper themes of the novel—self-awareness, acceptance, and the courage to embrace one's unique gifts. Moonie's journey from denial to acceptance of her abilities is a compelling narrative arc that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled with self-identity.

Moonie’s entrepreneurial venture, Moon Batch Apothecary, is a testament to her resilience and creativity. The business becomes a symbol of her personal growth and her ability to blend her mystical talents with the practicalities of the modern world. The novel does an excellent job of portraying the challenges and triumphs of starting a business, especially one that straddles the line between the mystical and the commercial. The rise of Moon Batch Apothecary, fueled by the power of social media and the allure of Insta-witches, adds a layer of realism to the story, grounding the fantastical elements in a world that readers can recognize and relate to.

Enter Olrik Zetterlind, or Ollie, the super analytical, super Swedish engineer who is Moonie’s unexpected romantic interest. Ollie is the perfect foil to Moonie’s whimsical nature. His pragmatic and precise approach to life is challenged by Moonie's unpredictable and magical world. The chemistry between the two characters is palpable, and their interactions are filled with humor and warmth. Bond skillfully uses their relationship to explore the theme of balance—how two seemingly opposite individuals can complement and enrich each other's lives.

The novel’s exploration of cultural differences adds depth to Moonie and Ollie’s relationship. Ollie’s Swedish background and analytical mindset contrast sharply with Moonie’s American upbringing and mystical inclinations. This cultural interplay is handled with sensitivity and humor, providing insightful commentary on how love can transcend cultural boundaries and personal differences.

One of the standout aspects of Sort of Seeing Someone is its vibrant and engaging supporting cast. From quirky friends to eccentric customers, the secondary characters add richness to the narrative and provide a broader context for Moonie’s world. These characters are not mere backdrops but integral parts of the story, each contributing to Moonie’s journey in meaningful ways.

Bond’s writing style is both witty and evocative, capturing the essence of modern romance while infusing it with a touch of magic. Her ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments makes the novel a joy to read. The dialogue is sharp and often laugh-out-loud funny, yet it never detracts from the emotional depth of the story.

In terms of thematic exploration, the novel delves into the idea of destiny versus free will. Moonie’s visions challenge the notion of predetermined fate, prompting both the characters and the readers to ponder whether our paths are truly written in the stars or if we have the power to shape our own destinies. This theme is beautifully woven into the narrative, providing a thought-provoking backdrop to the romantic storyline.

Comparatively, Sort of Seeing Someone shares thematic similarities with novels like Sarah Addison Allen’s Garden Spells and Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic, where magic and romance intertwine to explore themes of family, identity, and love. However, Bond’s novel stands out with its contemporary setting and its focus on the intersection of social media and modern-day witchcraft, offering a fresh take on the genre.

Overall, Sort of Seeing Someone is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and magical realism alike. Emily Bond has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the last page is turned. It’s a testament to the power of embracing one’s uniqueness and the magic that can happen when we open our hearts to the unexpected.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a novel that combines humor, romance, and a touch of magic, Sort of Seeing Someone is a must-read. It’s a story that reminds us that love, like magic, often defies logic and that sometimes, the most unexpected connections can lead to the most profound transformations.